AI Tools to Boost Your Productivity

This course introduces university teachers and  PhD students to practical, easy-to-use AI tools that enhance academic productivity, support teaching, and streamline administrative tasks. Participants will explore how artificial intelligence can assist with lesson planning, content generation, grading, research support, and communication, all while maintaining ethical and pedagogical standards. Hands-on sessions will ensure participants leave with applicable skills and ready-to-use tools.

 Content of the seminar:

  • Introduction to AI in Academia.Activity: Group discussion – “How are you already using AI (knowingly or not)?”
  • AI for Lesson Planning and Content Creation.Activity: Use ChatGPT or other AI tools to generate a lesson plan or teaching material for your subject.
  • AI in Assessment and Feedback. Activity: Test AI tools (e.g., Gradescope, ChatGPT) to create quiz questions or generate automated feedback.
  • Research Support with AI.Activity: Use tools like Elicit or Scite to find sources, summarise articles, or brainstorm research ideas.
  • Time Management and Task Automation.Activity: Create an AI-powered weekly planner or email response assistant (e.g., using Notion AI or Gmail smart replies).
  • AI for Presentation and Visual Aid Creation. Activity: Design a slide deck using AI (e.g., Canva Magic Design, Tome.app) for an upcoming lecture.
  • Ethical Use of AI in Teaching and Learning. Activity: Case study discussion – “Where is the ethical line in student use of AI?”
  • Building Your AI Toolkit.Activity: Create a personalised “AI toolbox” list for your academic tasks and share it with peers